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Social Welfare Benefits.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 November 2004

Tuesday, 9 November 2004

Ceisteanna (31)

Seymour Crawford

Ceist:

88 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the situation regarding medical cards and benefits for those who join the new rural social employment scheme; his views on whether they should have the same rights as community employment workers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27740/04]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

It has always been my intention that participants on the rural social scheme should retain their entitlement to medical cards and other secondary benefits and, indeed, have the same entitlements as community employment workers. My Department has made a case to the chief executive officers group of the health boards regarding medical cards and they have accepted, in principle, that payments under the scheme will be treated the same as payments to those on community employment. Confirmation of this from the Department of Health and Children is expected soon.

The only other case that has arisen in terms of secondary benefits relates to the fuel allowance. Those on the rural social scheme who claim fuel allowance receive it is as part of their normal weekly payment under the scheme. The Christmas bonus will also be paid to participants on the rural social scheme.

Question No. 89 answered with QuestionNo. 80.
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